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Hello from Huntsville, AL

Happy New Year to all! I'm brand new to hiking, having recently done a few miles on the AT, but I'm very excited about this new hobby. I am seriously considering purchasing a hammock but I can't decide which brand. a flat lie is my number one requirement, with weight being a close second (I think they are ALL lighter than my tent), and roominess third. The ones that look the most intriguing to me are the JRB Bridge and the Clark NX-250. I think I like the spreader bar concept. However, all the research has my head spinning. I realize there is a lot of personal choice involved, but I would sure like to hear some seasoned users' advice/thoughts! Anyone?

Welcome to the Forum!
If flatness is your primary concern then a Bridge hammock is your best choice. Are you a stomach sleeper? Based on what you said about your priorities, I'd give you a list that looks like this:

IMO, the last two hammocks offer the most room for the flatness of their lie. But, I don't find either comfortable for stomach sleeping. Stomach sleeping is still very much the realm of the Bridge hammock. The Clark system is one of those that you either like, or don't. Makes it a dangerous gamble at their price if you haven't tried one for yourself. Which, is true of all hammocks. Best bet is to get to a hang and try a few different hammock systems.

Sounds like you're on the right track and it seems you've already figured-out a lot of stuff during your research. If it makes you feel any better, my head still spins on a regular basis around here.

jtlee:
I have the NX-200 from Clark and live in Gadsden. I know it is no the one that you are looking for but it will give you and idea of how a Clark lays. If you are willing to come down here, you are more than welcome to give it a try if you would like. Good luck and happy hammock hunting. Almost forgot, welcome to HF and keep an eye out for hangs that are happening in Bama.

Greetings! It's great to see another rocket hanger here. I just got my first camping hammock. It is a Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro. Some good places around town that I have seen are Alabama Outdoors and Mountain High Outfitters. They have the biggest selection. Sports Authority, Gander Mtn and ****'s Sporting Goods also have some.

Happy New Year to all! I'm brand new to hiking, having recently done a few miles on the AT, but I'm very excited about this new hobby. I am seriously considering purchasing a hammock but I can't decide which brand. a flat lie is my number one requirement, with weight being a close second (I think they are ALL lighter than my tent), and roominess third. The ones that look the most intriguing to me are the JRB Bridge and the Clark NX-250. I think I like the spreader bar concept. However, all the research has my head spinning. I realize there is a lot of personal choice involved, but I would sure like to hear some seasoned users' advice/thoughts! Anyone?

Hi JT! Welcome to the off the ground life! I am over in Tupelo, MS and have quite an assortment of hammocks, including bridge and WBBB. Anytime you want to drive over and try some out, just let me know. Or, watch for a group hang on AL or TN or NC. You can learn a lot fast at one of those things.

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us....that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.
Romans 8:18,21-22